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Cable Reverse-Grip Forearm Curl

Beginner

Cable reverse-grip forearm curl that targets brachioradialis and forearm extensors to build grip strength and forearm size; uses pronated grip for constant tension and muscular endurance.

About Exercise

Equipment

Single Cable Machine, EZ Bar

Difficulty

2/5 • Beginner

Primary Muscle Groups

Forearms

Popularity Score

5

Goals

Hypertrophy
Endurance
Strength

Training Style

Bodybuilding

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Forearms

9/10

Extensors

Biceps

6/10

Brachialis

Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-90 seconds

How to Perform

Attach EZ bar to low pulley of cable machine. Stand facing machine with feet shoulder-width apart, grasp bar pronated grip shoulder-width, step back to create tension with arms extended.

  1. Curl bar upward by flexing elbows only.
  2. Keep upper arms stationary against torso.
  3. Squeeze forearms at top when bar nears shoulders.
  4. Pause briefly at peak contraction.
  5. Lower bar slowly to full extension.
  6. Maintain wrist neutrality throughout.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Pin elbows to sides
  • Squeeze forearms hard
  • Control descent fully
  • Avoid body swing

Breathing

Exhale during curl up; inhale during controlled lower.

Tempo

2-1-2

Range of Motion

Full elbow extension at bottom to forearms vertical at top; wrists stay neutral without excessive flexion.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Use light to moderate weight to avoid wrist strain
  • Stop if sharp elbow or wrist pain occurs
  • Ensure adequate wrist flexibility before starting

Spotting

Spotting not needed; self-spot by reducing weight if form breaks.

Common Mistakes

  • Using momentum to lift
  • Flaring elbows out
  • Bending wrists excessively
  • Selecting too heavy weight

When to Avoid

  • Acute wrist strain
  • Tennis elbow
  • Elbow joint instability

Flexibility Needed

  • Adequate wrist extension
  • Full elbow flexion range

Build Up First

  • Basic standing curl technique
  • Grip strength for bar hold

Also known as

Reverse Cable Curl, Pronated Cable Forearm Curl, Cable Pronated Curl

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